6.3 Key Performance Indicators
The goals of the MDRA are selected based on the goals of the facility, organization, or MDRA. Key performance indicators (KPIs) are a way for MDRAs to measure how well they are meeting these goals, in addition to meeting the requirements of local regulations and standards.
Different KPIs can be measured in each area of the MDRA:
- Decontamination: Water quality, minimum effective concentration testing results for disinfectants, equipment testing results (Figures 6.2 and 6.3)
- Assembly: The number of contaminated instruments, chemical indicator results
- Sterilization: The quality of steam, sterility monitoring results
- Sterile Storage & Distribution: The integrity of the sterilization packaging, environmental control monitoring
These are just some examples of different KPIs that may be measured by an MDRA for each area, but many other KPIs could be used.
What is a KPI?
A KPI must be specific, measurable, time-bound, and achievable.
- A KPI must be a specific component or outcome that can be measured, such as the number of product assembly errors reported by users.
- A KPI must also be time-bound and specify the length of time during which the KPI will be monitored.
- The frequency of monitoring for a KPI is based on the amount of risk that the process poses to patient safety.
Note that a KPI is to be used as a metric—a way of measuring the success of a process in meeting its goals—and is not always a target. KPIs are used to measure the quality of products delivered to the user and identify areas where the quality of the product can be improved.
Image Credits
(Images are listed in order of appearance)
Willekes, C. (2025). MDRA decontamination area, University of Alberta Hospital [Photo]. NorQuest College.
Willekes, C. (2025). MDRA decontamination area, University of Alberta Hospital [Photo]. NorQuest College.
